Project Name: Landscape Enhancement Planning and Design for the Waterfront Public Space in Shibei District, Qingdao
Design Period:2021–2022
Project Scope: Core design area of 254 hectares, research and planning area of 14 square kilometers
The significance of waterfront public space construction lies in establishing diverse and meaningful connections—spatially and culturally—between human habitats and ecological shorelines, between people, and between contemporary residents and the city's historical memory.
During the design process for Shibei District's 25-kilometer-long public spaces, we conducted in-depth field research, public surveys, and interviews to thoroughly understand residents' needs and aspirations. Our goal was to identify the key issues the public space design should address. Drawing inspiration from the abstract, poetic spatial techniques of traditional Chinese urban design, we created multifunctional ecological waterfront spaces that accommodate leisure, fitness, social interaction, and gatherings while evoking deep historical memories and resonating with local residents—a space fostering a sense of identity and social cohesion.
To protect and respond to the coastal climate and ecological characteristics, we designed layered waterfront public activity zones and plant landscapes. Based on tidal and climatic variations, we established different elevations and forms for waterfront activity spaces, along with rationally configured vegetation. We prioritized locally adapted, weather-resistant plant species to reflect the natural coastal features and create a resilient, low-maintenance, and sustainable coastal ecological community.
Design Goals and Philosophy:
The project aims to shape a high-quality waterfront public space that embodies the distinctive characteristics of Jiaozhou Bay and cultural heritage. It provides residents and visitors with an eco-friendly, aesthetically pleasing, and activity-rich waterfront environment, enhancing the sense of happiness and fulfillment for Shibei District residents. The waterfront public space will be transformed into:
- An ecological restoration-based waterfront greenbelt
- A cultural experience belt rooted in history
- An urban vitality belt characterized by internationally inspired waterfront spatial elements
Design Strategy — The "Eight Scenic Parks" Waterfront Concept
The "Eight Scenic Parks" concept was developed through an interpretation and refinement of Qingdao's natural geography and modern history. "While the south has the Eight Great Passes, the north boasts the Eight Scenic Parks"—a system of eight parks along the waterfront, resembling a string of emerald necklaces on the eastern shore of Jiaozhou Bay. This design fosters a sense of identity among local residents and creates an interconnected, accessible, multi-layered, and diverse open-space network, significantly improving urban quality of life.
The "Eight Scenic Parks," from south to north, are as follows:
Silk Road by the Sea
This park showcases the intimate relationship between the ocean and the Silk Road. It features a celebration square, cruise dock, lighthouse, viewing pier, and Silk Road lawn.
Clear Clouds Over the Sea
A realm of sacred light, this park includes cloud-walking corridors, wave-listening bridges, and wooden boardwalks.
Moonlit Isles and Shores
A poetic dialogue between islands and the sea, this park offers a skate plaza, sports hall, yacht marina, seaside viewing steps, and dining and retail spaces.
Rainbow After the Coastal Rain
Capturing the moods of the sea—both joyous and majestic—this park hosts light shows, fluorescent night runs, creative markets, lantern displays, seaside food fairs, and art exhibitions.
Egrets and Reeds
Inspired by the wetlands described in the Book of Songs, this park restores biodiversity at the Licun River estuary. Designed as a wetland park, it features educational trails, birdwatching stations, and other activities.
Sunset Over Emerald Depths
A place of inspiration where visitors can admire the sunset, this park includes a boat dock, cafés, outdoor movie screenings, and a sculpture garden, offering a retreat for creative professionals.
Fishermen's Songs by Mountains and Rivers
A domain of music, painting, and poetry, this park is designed as an art island, featuring fountain music festivals, children's art exhibitions, photography displays, garden reading days, and technology exhibitions—spaces for youth learning and exchange.
Flying Swan and Heavenly Seal
Named after the imagery of bridges as "flying swans" and "heavenly seals," this park is a sports paradise with fitness squares, basketball and tennis courts, gateball fields, and climbing walls.
Through the holistic design of waterfront public spaces, the project enhances urban quality, revitalizes the old city's economy, and promotes its renewal.
Construction Units: Qingdao Guoling, Shibei Construction Investment, Shibei Urban Development
Design Units: Shanghai urbanDATA, Qingdao Beiyang